Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to a lot of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on how they are stored and how they are jostled.
The majority of key fob issues are simple to fix. But some are more serious and require expert assistance. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.
G28 Car Keys for cars are quite intelligent, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally become stuck in the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. This won't fix the issue because it could be due to a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, and they frequently install a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of this kind of emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). When you press this button, you will be able to open the fob and reveal a key that you can use to unlock your car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be much closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You'll need a button-cell battery (which is similar to the size of a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user's guide to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same orientation that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is placed correctly.
You can access key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch at the back, and then tearing the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, because you'll need it to work with your vehicle! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself then you can bring your key fob to an expert. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a nominal fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers will even do it for free dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it isn't working. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device does not work after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
The car key fob could be damaged for various reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from opening. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may start to fail to register your press accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is recommended to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a perfect match to your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what type of battery it needs. If the battery isn't the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.
In very rare cases it could be the case that the issue is not the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if available). If your key isn't working to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the electronic and receiver components of your car to see whether they're functioning properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob contains numerous components that function together, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a malfunctioning internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
It is better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than try to repair it. The fob might require reprogramming in the vehicle and this isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment to do so.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board, but these may wear out over time. This is more likely when you drop the device or leave it outside in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also become worn out over time. This could lead to a button not working when it's being pressed or only working when it's press extremely hard. It could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.
Most fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened and safely cleaned with soap and water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's recommended to clean it regularly to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A damaged battery is the most common reason why a key fob won't turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly but if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from an hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks, tiny electronic components not fully connected to the circuit boards or corroded and bent contact points on the battery. If any of these is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance to program it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are a convenient option that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. When they stop working or work intermittently, they can be quite frustrating. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is determining the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. The connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to reconnect your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that came with the key fob. It's also recommended to carry a spare key with you to make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
The fob might not be receiving an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due weak batteries in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the cause by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press any of the buttons, it may be because the battery is in need of replacement or the fob is been damaged.
Another reason that the fob not transmitting a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be hindering it from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle, or if there is an issue with the software.
If you can't fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to repair it, you need to purchase the new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some can be delivered directly to your home.